NOTE from LEGISLATIVE LIAISON

As a nonpartisan, grass-roots organization, the Grange does not attempt to limit any member’s freedom to think, believe or vote as he or she pleases. However, we always give a full support to good legislation.

Involvement in the legislative process has been an important aspect of Grange activity since the organization’s inception in 1867. Our primary legislative objective is to represent the views of rural residents and the agriculture community. Our views become Grange policy from the grass roots, through a “bottom up” democratic process. Each year our policies are summarized and published in the Legislative Handbook, which guides our work in the Legislature. We encourage all Grangers to get involved and make their voices heard.

Become part of the Grange’s legislative history by writing resolutions

It is hard to believe, but the State Grange convention is just around the corner. The deadline for resolutions is May 20. I only remind you because as of this writing I have only received three resolutions. I have to ask; are you all so happy with our local, state and federal government that you do not feel it a new resolution is necessary? Do you find all of our policy in our legislative handbook satisfactory? If so then you can skip the rest of this article, but if not please read on.
As most of you know my primary objective as your Legislative Director is to advocate the policy set forth in our legislative handbook. We cover a lot of different issues, and not many organizations provide a detailed guide for the public to review. Not to mention our grassroots democratic process in which we adopt policy. But, this is a never-ending process of change, revisions and adaption.
Our legislative handbook is an accumulation of decade’s worth of policy Grangers have worked to make part of our advocacy efforts. I am amazed at the great policy we have already, and the dedication to making sure we remain true to our values. However, we know we as a nation are going through a rough patch and that things have changed for many Americans. Now is an important time to be looking at our legislative policy and ensure we are protecting our communities, farms, schools, hospitals and families from regulations, laws and excessive burdens.
For the most part I would say well done. I find very few occasions that I have to wring my hands because we don’t have policy on an important issue, and I see our legislative handbook sitting prominently in the offices of many of our legislators. But I know that there is always room for change. 
As a grassroots organization, the Grange provides each member a valuable opportunity to make his or her voice heard. Issues of concern can be discussed openly amongst fellow members and a simple majority moves the issue forward.
Now is a perfect time to review our legislative handbook. Do you see something that should not be there? Maybe something that is missing or could be revised. Now is the time to take your ideas to your local Grange meeting. If you are uncertain on an issue or would like help with an idea, I am more than willing to help. You call either shoot me an email at hjohnson@wa-grange.org or call the office at (360) 943-9911 or (800) 854-1635.